Ventricular fibrillation and rhabdomyolysis after administration of succinylcholine
Succinylcholine is a depolarising muscle relaxant. Because of its quick onset of action, it is particularly used in situations which require urgent intubation. However, there have been several reports of cardiac arrest after administration of succinylcholine. We describe the case of a young woman who developed ventricular fibrillation and rhabdomyolysis following succinylcholine administration. Possible mechanisms and treatment are discussed.
Succinylcholine is a depolarising muscle relaxant. Because of its quick onset of action, it is particularly used in situations which require urgent intubation. However, there have been several reports of cardiac arrest after administration of succinylcholine. We describe the case of a young woman who developed ventricular fibrillation and rhabdomyolysis following succinylcholine administration. Possible mechanisms and treatment are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Depolarizing Blockers: Pharmocokinetics
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Adverse Effects
Unlike...
Depolarizing Blockers: Mechanism of Action
Succinylcholine is the most commonly used depolarizing blocker. Chemically, it constitutes two molecules of acetylcholine joined together by an acetate methyl group. They act on the receptors in the same way as acetylcholine. Because...
Nondepolarizing (Competitive) Neuromuscular Blockers: Pharmacological Actions
Although all competitive neuromuscular blockers are designed...
Anticholinesterase Agents: Poisoning and Treatment
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is...
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Therapeutic Uses


